By Phil McNulty Chief football writer

Bellamy's career statistics

Everton have made Newcastle's Craig Bellamy a top transfer priority as boss David Moyes moves to strengthen his squad for the Champions League bid.

Th �5m-rated striker is an outcast at Newcastle following a public bust-up with manager Graeme Souness.

And BBC Sport understands that Bellamy heads a list of Everton striking targets - with Tottenham's Robbie Keane and Crystal Palace's Andy Johnson.

Bellamy had a successful loan spell at Celtic but they have not made a move.

Newcastle refused to comment on claims on Monday that Everton had been given permission to open talks with Bellamy.

Everton are keen to further bolster their squad after signing Simon Davies from Spurs but a move for Mikael Forssell failed on medical grounds and they then lost out to Newcastle for midfield man Scott Parker.

Moyes hopes that Bellamy will be attracted by the prospect of Champions League football at Goodison Park, while Everton are optimistic that his reported �45,000-a-week salary will not scupper any deal.

Newcastle had hoped to rake in �6m for Bellamy but they may have to settle for less.

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Souness will not welcome Bellamy back on Tyneside after being publicly criticised by the Welshman.

And chairman Freddy Shepherd denied reports that he was planning to meet boss Souness to discuss the striker's future amid suggestions he could be welcomed back into the fold.

He told the club website: "I'm not having a meeting with Graeme Souness to discuss the situation with Craig Bellamy. The situation has not changed. It is as simple as that."

Shepherd also revealed that Celtic had made no move to sign Bellamy, despite the forward proving a massive hit at Parkhead.

He said: "You will have to ask Celtic that one - if they have the money or not.

"But the loan option ran out and we have never heard any more from them."

Everton have also been linked with a move for Manchester City defender Sylvain Distin, with agent Willie McKay revealing that talks had taken place between the clubs.